In this piece, Dakota Flournoy writes about the challenges and strategies for reporting on environmental issues, weighing against their global impact.
To learn more about Storyful’s reporting strategies, reach out to publishers@storyful.com today.
A multitude of angles
“Climate change as a broad subject offers a wide variety of possible angles. In June alone, we have seen the first named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, dramatic protests from climate activists, damaging tornadoes, and a staggering death toll from extreme heat during the Hajj.
Look to user-generated content for visually striking video. Touch on the human impact, both devastating and hopeful, via first-hand accounts from those affected. Analyze climate change’s role in politics, from its effect on budget and city planning to its influence on voters in major elections.
Newsgathering with empathy
As extreme weather becomes more commonplace we may expect to see more user-generated content and first hand accounts from people on the ground. For journalists it may be another day on the job, but for those affected it is likely a life-changing event involving the loss of homes, livelihood, and loved ones. Take care to show empathy, patience, and understanding, even if you’re on a tight deadline.
Look to the science, distill the data
One of the best ways to help inform the public is by contextualizing and distilling data scientific studies and the academic community, especially those that center around solutions.
What are leading experts saying? What are some of the coolest projects currently underway? Pairing this information with reports on climate activism or weather events can help add depth and sense of hope to your story.
All news is bad news? Avoiding doom fatigue
Consumers report increased levels of news avoidance due to “doom fatigue.” While climate change and its ramifications are at their base anxiety-inducing, the subject offers many opportunities to deliver a unique angle to your audience.
Did a community come together after a storm? Was there a breakthrough in science or technology? Was there a particularly colorful character who experienced the event?
A story that focuses on solutions, hope, or a silver lining can help keep your audience engaged.
See the Storyful Spotlight: News Avoidance from Senior Editor John Hall for more.
Conclusion
Trends suggest climate-related news, be it weather or politics, will increasingly dominate reporting. Here are some tips to avoid doom fatigue and keep your audience engaged:
- Vary your content
- Try solution-based framing
- Highlight positive stories and interesting characters
Don’t miss another update from Newswire by Storyful. Subscribe today.
